Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both offer unique typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation for a whisper-quiet typing experience. Each switch has its own characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the rich and deep sound profile delivered by the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, while the Gazzew blend offers a unique and stylish look. However, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Cloudy Shadow focusing on clarity and resonance, and the U4 emphasizing a softer and more absorbing sound.
The nylon bottom housing of the Cloudy Shadow creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and ability to absorb sound. This contrasts with the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4, which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its soft texture. Both housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a rounder sound profile and the U4 providing a more impactful and resonant feel. Despite the differences in material, both switches are designed to enhance the sound and tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material for a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While the Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 use different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both prioritize delivering a high-quality sound profile for users. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharp and clear sound profile with a deeper tone, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend material produces a rich and resonant sound with a soft and absorbing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the U4's 45 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, which is slightly higher than the U4's 62 grams. The Cloudy Shadow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the U4 offers a medium one. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4 due to its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Despite the differences in force, both switches cater to varying preferences, providing users with a choice based on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the U4 slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular due to their quick response times, especially favored by gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance could be felt by those who prefer a more specific feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for either a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloudy Shadow for $3.91.
The Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, making it quieter than the average mechanical keyboard switch. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches offer a unique auditory experience that can be further customized with different keyboards and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its extended springs, offering a safe and approachable middle-ground typing sensation. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump, delivering high feedback intensity with a distinct and crisp feel with each keypress. Whether you prefer a gentle and bouncy feel or a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback, both switches cater to different typing preferences.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced and mild typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound, the U4 provides a sharp tactile bump and a whisper-quiet sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high level of quality and innovation from both Aflion and Gazzew in their respective offerings.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, you may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the U4 with its 62g force may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow would be a good choice, whereas if you prefer a muted sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, the U4 would be more appealing. Ultimately, if you prefer a mild and bouncy typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow would be a good fit, while if you prefer a sharp and intense tactile bump, the U4 would be the way to go. Consider these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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